Security measures at the BSP

We come to the end of a difficult and draining week for the School and families alike. Our collective thoughts have been dominated by tragic events and I suspect that it has been difficult for us all to focus on anything other than the perfectly understandable concern we feel for the safety of the children in our care. We grieve with those who have lost loved ones and may be fearful for what the future holds. These are difficult times and we are right to acknowledge them as such. We as a school have done all that we are able to maintain a sense of normality and the School as a whole should feel proud of all it has done. Without the support of parents we would not have achieved all that we have.

Our greatest strength is our community. I was greatly appreciative of parents alerting us to the presence of an unknown journalist in the environs of the School yester-day. Please do not hesitate to contact the School if you have doubts about individuals that are in the vicinity, particularly at drop off and pick-up times. It is important that we as a school, working with parents, ensure that our locale is safe. Whilst it may be contrary to our nature we are right to be wary at this time, vigilance is one of the most important elements of our protection.

I am greatly appreciative of the work being put in by both the staff and the members of the BSPS who are taking a flexible approach to the organisation of Christmas events.

I have no doubt from what I have seen so far that the end of term will be as fun fuelled as ever.

You will find details of rescheduled events in the accompanying letters from Miss Tuckwell and Dr. Batters. As a consequence of limited operating times it will be the case that Parents’ Evenings will be rescheduled. If you have a concern about your son or daughter, it is important that you make contact with us. We are keen to ensure that you remain included in all matters pertaining to academic development. Where concerns arise from a school perspective, teachers will make contact with you directly.

Restrictions on the range and scope of extra-curricular matters mean that the opportunity for academic work increases. I will be urging our students to make the next four weeks of term especially productive. To develop understanding as a consequence of acts of intolerance would seem to me to be a fitting response. I hope that our pupils recognise this. By taking advantage of newly freed time for academic endeavour, our students will gain a greater understanding of the world. This, at least in my eyes, would be a fitting tribute to those who perished.

As I move around the Schools I am constantly impressed with the sensible attitude that our young people exhibit at this time. Their level headed and measured approach has made the management of this situation far easier than might have been expected. They are truly a credit to the School and to their families. When I see them I am given hope for the future.